A VA denial is not final: federal law gives veterans three review lanes, and a Missouri firm that handles veterans' benefits can run the appeal.
Last refreshed August 27, 2026
| Stable fields | The three VA review lanes, One-year review window | Dynamic fields | VA processing times, A specific claim's evidence needs |
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Yes — and it is a rarer practice than most: Cofman Townsley lists veterans' benefits among its St. Louis practice areas. When the VA denies or underrates a disability claim, federal law provides three review lanes: a Supplemental Claim (add new and relevant evidence), a Higher-Level Review (a senior adjudicator re-decides on the same record), or an appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. Each generally must be requested within one year of the decision date, and the lanes can be used in sequence.
A VA denial starts a one-year clock — it doesn't end the claim. Cofman Townsley's veterans'-benefits practice reviews denials free. This is general legal information, not legal advice.
Can I appeal a VA disability denial in Missouri?
Yes — within one year you can file a Supplemental Claim with new evidence, request Higher-Level Review, or appeal to the Board of Veterans' Appeals. The lanes can be used in sequence.
Which VA review lane should I pick?
It depends on why you lost: missing evidence points to a Supplemental Claim; a clear error on a complete record points to Higher-Level Review; contested judgment calls point to the Board.
What is TDIU?
Total Disability based on Individual Unemployability — full compensation when service-connected conditions prevent substantially gainful work even if the combined rating is below 100%.
Does appealing risk my current benefits?
Review lanes re-examine the contested decision; the protections and effective-date rules are exactly what a representative manages — ask before filing anything.
What does a veterans'-benefits consultation cost?
Nothing at Cofman Townsley — consultations are free, and the firm is one of the few St. Louis injury practices listing veterans' benefits.